Grounding Afrocentric Architecture in African Art Traditions and Organic Building Cultures

The architectural culture of Africa in the post-colonial era has largely remained tied to Western educational models, building techniques, and aesthetic philosophies, despite Afrocentric rhetoric in academia. This study explores the potential to develop an Afrocentric architectural identity through the systematic use of African art forms and indigenous architectural traditions. It examines the conceptual connection between African art and architecture, characterised by key traits such as abstraction, symbolism, rhythm, and spirituality. The study also examines how African art forms can serve as a foundation for an Afrocentric architectural culture grounded in the Five Pillars of Afrocentric Architecture outlined by the Community Planning and Design Initiative Africa (CPDI Africa): Culture and Tradition, Aesthetics and Form, Spirituality, Local Materials, and Community Involvement. Furthermore, it explores organic architectural traditions across Africa, from the sikien of the Batammariba of Togo and Benin to the circular designs of the Bantu-Zulu peoples of southern Africa. The research also looks at how African art forms underpin the modern architectural movement that combines tradition and modernity, exemplified by figures such as Worofila in Senegal and Francis Kéré in Burkina Faso. Ultimately, the study finds that African art forms have significant potential to shape the conceptual framework of African architectural identity.